William Eichler 19 April 2018

Council leader resigns over alleged WhatsApp ‘data breach’

The leader of St Helens Council has resigned as the police investigate allegations of a ‘possible data breach’.

Cllr Barrie Grunewald, the leader since 2013, has stepped down describing the breach accusations as ‘spurious’.

It is believed the alleged data breach relates to sharing information on WhatsApp.

‘I have had letters and text messages to my phone, so I hope they can trace the individual and I urge the police to carry out their investigations quickly and will provide them with the letters and text messages that have been sent to me,’ Cllr Grunewald told the BBC.

Mike Palin, chief executive of St Helens Council, stressed the resignation did ‘not relate to operational functioning of the council.’

A spokesperson for the Merseyside Police confirmed an investigation was underway.

‘We can confirm that we’re investigating an allegation of a possible data breach reported at St Helens Council,’ they said.

‘Enquiries are ongoing to establish whether any criminal activities have taken place.’

St Helens Council yesterday evening appointed Cllr Derek Long as the new council leader in what a spokesperson for the authority described as a ‘unanimous vote’.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Pre-School/Nursery Assistant

Essex County Council
Up to £13.00 per hour
Pre-School/Nursery AssistantPermanent, Part Time£13.00 per hourLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Preschool Nursery Assistant - Level 3 Qualified

Essex County Council
Up to £13.00 per hour
Preschool Nursery Assistant - Level 3 QualifiedPermanent, Part Time£13.00 per hourLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Trading Standards Project Officer - Tobacco and Vapes

Essex County Council
£26601.0000 - £31295.0000 per annum
Trading Standards Project Officer - Tobacco and VapesFixed Term, Full Time£26,601 to £31,295 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Social Care Worker - WMF2272e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£34,434 - £35,412
We have an exciting opportunity, for a passionate, enthusiastic person Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Apprenticeships & Intermediate Labour Market Coordinator

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Create real opportunities for local people and help shape a fairer future. As an Apprenticeships and Intermediate Labour Market Coordinator, you'll wo England, London, City of London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Linkedin Banner